This report maps and analyzes the dynamics of long-term structural changes - not merely cyclical market fluctuations - brought about by globalization and rapidly evolving technology in the GGH economy. The study reveals a regional economic landscape characterized by concentrations of employment in Downtown Toronto, three large suburban employment megazones, and five Suburban Knowledge-Intensive Districts (SKIDs). Like Downtown Toronto, these megazones and SKIDs, contain a high proportion of "core" jobs, that is, jobs in the "tradeable" sectors that draw income into the region and are key to innovation and competition.
The author notes that the megazones and SKIDs are not recognized in The Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe or in The Big Move, which focus instead on potential growth nodes called Urban Growth Centres (UGCs). The report contains suggestions for ways in which planning in the GGH could be better oriented towards ensuring a competitive, prosperous region that attracts businesses and investment.